What You Need to Apply Heskins Tapes, Our Tips & Tricks

We want to offer you the tips and tricks we know to help you streamline the tape application process, ensuring a durable bond between tape and application surface. Explore our range of accessories that make applying tape easier and enhance Heskins anti-slip tapes longevity. From tape applicators that offer precise and efficient placement to primers that improve adhesion, we’ll delve into the world of tape accessories and uncover the tools that can elevate your tape application game. Join us as we discover the key to seamless tape application and longevity like never before.

Surface Primer

What’s is surface primer used for with anti-slip tape?

Surface primers enhance adhesion between tapes and porous surfaces. It acts as a sealant allowing a bond to form between the tape and the application surface. By using a primer, the tape adheres securely to wood, concrete, stone and other permeable materials.

Do you need to use surface primer?

You do not need to use surface primer when applying Heskins non-slip tape to non-porous surfaces such as plastics, metals, varnished woods and glass. Surface primer seals the area stopping water from affecting tape’s adhesive properties, water is unable to penetrate non-porous materials.

IPA Surface Cleaner

Why is it important to clean a with IPA before applying an adhesive?

Cleaning a surface with isopropyl alcohol (IPA) before applying an adhesive is crucial for achieving strong and long-lasting bonds. IPA removes contaminants like dirt, dust, and oils from the surface, ensuring a clean and uniform substrate. In turn, enhances the adhesive’s ability to bond securely to the surface. Additionally, IPA can activate non-porous materials by eliminating invisible films or oxidation, improving the adhesive’s wetting and bonding properties. Furthermore, IPA evaporates quickly, leaving a clean, dry surface ready for immediate adhesive application. By using IPA to clean the surface, you create an ideal foundation for optimal adhesion and promote the longevity of the adhesive bond.

How do you make tape stick better?

Several methods can be employed to enhance tape adhesion and improve sticking capabilities. Firstly, ensure proper surface preparation by cleaning and removing any contaminants. Applying adequate pressure during installation helps activate the adhesive and ensure maximum contact. A warm application temperature can soften the adhesive, aiding in better bonding. Allowing sufficient time for the adhesive to cure and bond is crucial. Consider temperature, environment and the tape’s intended purpose. Using tapes specifically designed for the intended surface. Tape adhesion can be significantly improved by combining these methods, ensuring a strong and reliable bond in various applications.

Edge Fix

What do you use to keep your tape from lifting?

Firstly, ensure proper surface preparation by cleaning the area thoroughly. Apply sufficient pressure during tape application to maximize contact and activate the adhesive. Follow proper tape application techniques, avoiding stretching or distorting the tape. Applying edge fix along the edges provides an additional layer of protection. Consider environmental factors such as temperature and humidity, and use tapes designed for challenging conditions. Implementing these techniques can minimize tape edge lift and promote a secure and long-lasting bond.

Why use edge fix when applying tape?

Edge fix is used when applying anti-slip tape to provide additional protection and reinforcement to the edges. It seals and protects the exposed edges of the tape, preventing moisture, dirt, and debris from compromising adhesion. Edge fix enhances the durability of the tape installation, reducing the risk of fraying, lifting, or curling. It also contributes to a neat and finished appearance, blending seamlessly with the surface. By securely sealing the edges, edge fix improves safety by minimizing the chances of trips or slips caused by loose or lifted edges. It ensures a longer-lasting, more effective anti-slip solution, especially in high-traffic areas.

Keying Agent

What does a keying agent do?

You should apply keying agent (A.K.A bonding or adhesion promoter) to low-energy surfaces before you apply tape. It enhances adhesion by chemically interacting with the area, creating microscopic irregularities that improve bonding capabilities. Heskins keying agent increases the substrate’s surface energy, making it more receptive to the subsequent material, resulting in better wetting, spreading, and compatibility between the surface and the coating or adhesive. Keying agent increases the bond strength, ensuring a strong and durable connection that resists peeling or delamination. Keying agents are particularly useful when working with challenging low-energy surfaces such as certain types of plastic.

Does tape stick to plastic?

Yes, tape can stick to plastic surfaces. However, the effectiveness of adhesion can vary depending on the type of plastic (low or high energy) and the chosen tape. Some plastics have low surface energy, making it more challenging for anti-slip tape to adhere securely. In such cases, using tapes specifically designed for bonding to plastic or employing techniques like surface preparation and priming can improve the adhesion. It’s also important to consider the application requirements and choose a tape that is compatible with the plastic surface for optimal adhesion and longevity.

Rubber Mallet

Is the rubber mallet an effective method when applying tape?

Using a rubber mallet can be an effective method when applying certain types of tape, it helps you evenly distribute pressure, activates the adhesive, and helps remove air bubbles and wrinkles. However, caution should be exercised, ensuring that the tape and surface can withstand the impact without damage. We suggest using a rubber mallet to improve the bond between our conformable tape and the uneven application surface.

Seam Roller

Why use a seam roller?

A seam roller is an essential tool used during tape installation. It enhances adhesion by providing uniform pressure, ensuring proper contact between the tape and the surface. It also helps smooth out the tape, eliminating wrinkles and creases, resulting in a neat and flat appearance. The roller’s application of pressure activates the adhesive, increasing bond strength and promoting a durable and long-lasting adhesion. Additionally, a seam roller assists in integrating seams when joining two pieces of tape, creating a seamless transition and improving the overall bond. It facilitates an even application of the tape, ensuring uniform adhesion, especially in larger sections.

Squeegee

What are squeegees used for?

They smooth out the applied tape, helping to remove any trapped air bubbles, which increases its durability. We suggest using the squeegee on smooth tapes that do not contain grit, for instance, our non-abrasive or reflective tapes.

We hope you have found this blog on the best tips and tricks we recommend for applying tape effectively, improving its durability and longevity. You can contact us via the contact us form or telephone 877 900 8359.